Your baby's growth vocabulary
Month 22
At 22
months, your baby has become a little more chatterbox! Every day she learns a
new word. She can even connect two words, such as "Mom, come",
"Let's go" or "All done."
Her
ever-expanding vocabulary of words and phrases allows her to have real
conversations. Sometimes it seems like she never stops!
Even
if you don't understand everything your baby says, nod and smile to encourage
him. Offer helpful advice when she stumbles or can't find the right word. You
will help his language skills develop even more.
Let
her know what's ahead of you throughout the day. She understands you better
than she can speak, and setting her expectations can help avoid a nervous
breakdown.
Other
ways to improve your child's speech:
- Read to her and encourage her to recite back lines from the book.
- Use flash cards and memory games to reinforce words.
- Watch your language. Any bad words you say can -- and will -- eventually come out of your child's mouth. And who knows who she'll say it to?
- Be a sportscaster. Describe what your baby is doing while she's doing it to help her learn the words.
Your baby's development this month
Colors,
movements, faces - when you are a baby, there are so many interesting things in
the world! Now that your child's vision is much sharper, he can see every shiny
and beautiful detail.
Provide
your little one with a variety of sites to explore. Have her look at colorful
picture books, paintings, flowers, and faces. Be very descriptive in your
conversations with your toddler. Tell about the size, shape and color of
objects.
Your
pediatrician will check your child's vision and look for any slanted eyes, lazy
eyes, or head tilts that could signal a problem.
In the
meantime, keep an eye on your baby's eyesight. Call the doctor if you notice
that your child:
- Can't focus on or follow an object
- Can't see people in the distance
- Rubs her eyes a lot
- Has red, irritated, or teary eyes
- Makes unusual eye movements
Tips for the 22nd month
- By the age of 2, your child should know at least 50 words and at least half of them should be understandable to a foreigner. If she has trouble pronouncing words, call the doctor.
- To help keep them healthy, make sure your child is washing their hands often. Help her remember to do this after she sneezes, plays with animals or, if she does, goes to the bathroom.
- Sometimes parents need a break, but be sure to prepare your child. Find a nanny he likes who will take care of his regular daily routine.
- Handmade clothes are great for clothes, but with toys, the newer the better. Old toys may not meet current safety standards and may break.
- You're never too old to be stupid. Make funny faces and make silly noises - your child will love it!
- Take a walk in nature. Explore insects, flowers and trees with your child. Both of you will get exercise, fresh air and a great adventure.
- To avoid temper tantrums, give your child a choice. For example, let her choose which books to read with you. And try to stick to the established regimen.